In the 1980s when AIDS first began to be diagnosed in the U.S., people were frightened and didn’t know what caused it. Because AIDS was common among gay men, the government took the steps to block gay and bisexual men from donating blood. Decades later, this law is outdated, discriminatory and ridiculous. Most men who have had sex with men are not HIV positive, and heterosexual people can contract HIV as well. Furthermore, the blood supply is screened for numerous diseases, including HIV.

Rejecting gay and bisexual blood donors doesn’t just affect the blood supply. Gay and bisexual guys who want to donate blood can feel shamed and like their school and government don’t accept them for who they are. They also may feel left out because they can’t participate in an important charitable cause, simply because of their sexual orientation. LGBTQ teens experience a higher rate of bullying than other teens as it is, and this policy sends the message that being gay or bisexual is bad, which may increase bullying and homophobia.